Letter from the Publisher
Welcome to one of our most joyful issues of the year—our Kids & Pets issue! As we enter the “dog days of Summer”, we hope that the stories we share on the following pages inform and educate you about some of the amazing people, organizations, and achievements that exist in your backyard … Stamford.
We will highlight a 15-year-old organization called Leveling the Playing Field, whose mission is to help children and citizens in need. Started by Stamford’s Ken D’Andrea and a local Knights of Columbus chapter, this organization raises money through outings and events for those in our city who are in need of financial assistance.
Interest in pickleball among children has been growing rapidly in recent years, mirroring the sport's explosive popularity across the U.S. and globally. Here in Stamford, kids from various after school programs are learning the art of pickleball at the popular venue at Stamford Town Center – Pickleball America.
In this issue, you will be introduced to a pair of fascinating, amazingly talented music virtuosos – one who is 17 and the other who is 20 - who are honing their craft on Hope Street at Greenwich Arts Academy.
And finally, turning to pets, we will share the story of an exceptional dog adoption organization called Lucky Dog Refuge, and also take a look at the wonderful work being done on the South End at Cornell University Veterinary Specialists. CUVS is shedding the light on something we don’t often associate with animals –the need for blood.
At Stamford City Lifestyle, we believe lifestyle is more than a trend - it’s about connection. Few things connect us more deeply than our kids and our pets. In a world that moves so fast, our little ones and furry friends remind us to slow down, live in the moment, and love unconditionally. May this issue bring you inspiration, smiles—and maybe a few happy tears.
Good reading!
MARTY SHAPIRO & DUKE, PUBLISHER @STAMFORDCITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Marty Shapiro | Marty.Shapiro@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Laurie A. Guzda | laurie.guzda@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Eva Glassman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michael Macari, Sarah Bamford, Marty Shapiro, Kirstin Mende
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Angela Strassheim, Jay Cohen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
SCAN ME CUVS.ORG
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL MACARI
NEVER DOUBT A CITY’S ABILITY TO TAKE CARE OF THEIR OWN. HERE’S WHAT ONE GROUP OF CONCERNED CITIZENS ARE DOING.
LEVELING THE FIELD
Major League Manager and Player, Bobby Valentine, presents Andy Katz with an autographed bat.
It all began innocently enough several years back when local Knights of Columbus Chapter 41 decided to hand out tootsie rolls at a charity golf outing. Long involved in local com-
organizations as ARI as well Challenger Little League and a few individual cases, became a focus for the event.
Seeing potential and the need, the Knights began to give away more than just
“IT BECAME APPARENT THAT PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS DIDN’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN.”
munity and religious works, the men of Chapter 41 aptly called their new event the Frank Robotti Tootsie Roll Tournament, after one of their notable volunteer members. Over the years, the event grew as members- mostly tradesmen and members- shared a day in the sunshine together.
Ken D’Andrea is a lifelong member of #41. He is also a starter at Sterling Farms Golf Course in Stamford. That role brings him in contact with people of all walks of life making the proverbial rounds at Sterling. As a leader of the annual golf event, Ken was and is not one to shy away from asking people for support. Ken began to feel a burden to help Stamford families with special needs children.
Since the 1970s, the Special Olympics was the only organization in Stamford putting a spotlight on children with special needs. As the Knights' outings grew slowly over the years, helping children with special needs in such
tootsie rolls. Ken began to involve people outside of the Knights in the events. He began having raffles, even auctions to raise money for this new-found cause.
To his surprise, the outings began to sell out, and the luncheons that followed grew by hundreds of attendees.
Local supporters saw the sincerity in Kenny’s work, and the need right here in the community.
LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD WAS BORN.
Ken sees this as Stamford helping Stamford. He believes that, in time, many of those served will have the potential to become productive citizens and independent members of the community. They just need a level playing field. Families of children with special needs face challenges for their lifetime. For some, it’s the need for ongoing medical attention. For others it’s special equipment, agency referrals and guidance, wheelchairs, and support services.
In researching, the group was surprised to learn the extent of the need. There are currently 82,000 people statewide and some 2,500 young people in Stamford and in the Stamford school system alone who need help. Brad Lupinacci, an executive with First County Bank who has been working with the organization since the beginning says, “In a time of diminished funding, they just don’t know where to turn.”
Throughout the past fifteen years, the outings have become the forum to bring a growing community together with the people they help. Take 10-year-old Andy Katz, Andy was born with Down's Syndrome. His mother, Michele, is happy to share him with the group. Andy leads the group in the Pledge of Allegiance at each outing. One can say Andy has become the poster child for the group.
Stamford native and former Major Leaguer, Bobby Valentine, took time out of his busy schedule to present Andy with a signed baseball bat a few years back. Ask Andy... he’ll tell you all about it.
Christopher Russo of "Mike and the Mad Dog" fame attends yearly and donates a guest appearance on his Sirius Radio talk show to a lucky auction winner.
Ken’s passion is now pointing the way to a greater vision for the future - education and employment. Last year, nearly 300 citizens attended the luncheon following the event. This year, Level the Playing Field incorporated, operates with a ten-person board. The annual event will reach $1 million in support for area families and people of all ages.
This page, top: Chris Russo, Mike and the Madman Sirius Radio Talk Show Host with Andy Katz
Bottom: One of LTPF’s “Special” honorees. Next page, top: Event Founder with Italian Center CEO Jon Hoch and Andy Katz.
Middle: Grace Lombardo Receives Check from LTPF Founder Ken D’Andrea at 2024 Event
“WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED.”
The event attracts a who’s who of Stamford notables, including mayors, community organizers, well-known residents and business executives as well as those who have quietly worked behind the scenes.
Working with philanthropic organizations such as The Umbrella Club, The Stamford Policeman’s Association, Raise the Bar, and others, more and more people with special needs are finding a place to go for simple, yet immediate help.
High school senior and cheerleader, Grace Lombardo, attended the event with her family last year. Grace is a cheerleader at Stamford High. Grace has Downs Syndrome. She will be attending Norwalk Community College next year with a special educational grant from the group.
Vincent DiLorenzo will be attending Mitchell College in the fall. The organization is even funding research into rare diseases such as Kabuki Syndrome, affecting children locally and nationwide.
Today, no less than a dozen organizations, including Sterling Farms, are hiring special needs citizens. They fill roles as ground crews. Stamford’s Grade A Markets are adding baggers and stockers. Target has hired customer service desk staff from the rolls of local special needs adults. And restaurants such as Zody’s are employing adults with special needs through the advocacy of Leveling the Playing Field.
Ken sees this as “only the beginning.”
“We owe it to the dedication of the team, those who support us every year and the kids we serve,” Ken says with heartfelt pride. “The sincerity in their hearts is what is bringing these blessings on this community. And we’re just getting started.”
So how far can the Stamford community go to “level the playing field” for its citizens with special needs? If attendance at these events and the growing contributions of the community are any indication, the possibilities are endless.
Leveling the Playing Field will be holding its annual outing and luncheon fundraiser this year on Sept. 4, 2025. The golf event is sold out. Those seeking to attend the luncheon or contribute to the work of Leveling the Playing Field can do so by calling 203-219-5330.
Honorees Andy Katz and Grace Lombardo.
lucky dog refuge
Adopt, don’t shop. Your Lucky Dog is out there, waiting for you.
WHAT SHOULD ADOPTING FAMILIES BE PREPARED FOR?
Adopting a dog is a major commitment—especially for families. We want parents and kids to go into the experience with open eyes and open hearts. That means being prepared for early wake-ups, accidents in the house, training setbacks, and regular vet visits. It also means having a plan for who walks the dog, feeds them, and helps with training. The most successful adoptions happen when everyone in the household is on board and ready to pitch in.
WHAT ARE THE 3 MOST IMPORTANT THINGS FOR PEOPLE TO CONSIDER BEFORE ADOPTING?
1. Lifestyle compatibility – Your family’s routine should be a good fit for a dog’s needs. Think energy level, work/school schedules, and availability for training and enrichment. Are you an active household or more laidback? The right dog will thrive in a home that mirrors their rhythm.
2. Age-appropriate involvement – Are your kids ready to help with basic tasks like feeding, walking, or helping with training games? Including children in the caregiving process not only builds empathy—it sets the stage for a strong, respectful bond between them and the dog.
3. Commitment to training – Much like children, dogs benefit from going to school and learning. Dogs don’t come home knowing the rules.
ARTICLE BY KIRSTIN MENDE, CEO LUCKY DOG
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY COHEN
They need consistency, structure, and positive reinforcement. When families don’t commit to training, it often leads to behavior issues and frustration. But training can actually be fun! From teaching “sit” to learning loose-leash walking, every small success creates connection— and kids love being part of that progress.
HOW TO KNOW WHEN A DOG IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
It’s not about the cutest face or most popular breed. It’s about energy, temperament, and whether the dog’s needs align with your family’s life. At Lucky Dog Refuge, we take the time to make thoughtful matches—because a well-matched adoption is a successful one. What personality fits your household best—playful and goofy or calm and cuddly? Do you want a jogging buddy or a couch potato who loves watching Bravo as much as you do? Or maybe you want a dog that can do both! A dog is a family member, and when everyone helps make the choice, the bond is that much stronger.
ARE THERE OPTIONS AVAILABLE BEFORE COMMITTING?
Yes! We highly recommend trying out our Lucky Dog Refuge Volunteer Program. Volunteering is a great way to fill that void if you’re not ready (emotionally or situationally) to commit. During a volunteer session, you’ll get to take a dog out for a one-hour walk around Harbor Point—it’s a fun, easy way to spend time with rescue dogs, get to know their personalities, and see what might fit best in your home. It’s a great weekend activity, and dogs love the one-on-one time. We are dependent on and very grateful for financial donations, but we also know that not everyone is in a position to give, especially if they are saving up for a dog of their own. There are so many ways you can engage in your community to help give back!
1. Check if your employer will match your donation – the ultimate life saving BOGO!
2. Start a fundraiser on social media or in your neighborhood for your birthday or other life milestones.
3. Remember that as little as $5 can already make a huge difference.
4. If you have lost a pet, donate your old pet supplies that are still in good condition.
5. Volunteer your time walking dogs
Fostering is also an amazing option for families. You’ll provide a safe, temporary home for a dog in need while learning what it takes to care for one full-time.
HOW CAN KIDS GET INVOLVED AND LEARN ABOUT ANIMAL WELFARE AND COMPASSION?
For both the safety of the people and the dogs alike, our age minimum for volunteer dog walking is 14 years or older and those under 17 must be supervised by a chaperone. But for those of age, it is a wonderful opportunity for parents and their teens to spend quality time together outside and with a dog in need.
CONTINUED >
There are other ways for younger children to make a difference! Many have collected supplies at their schools, hosted lemonade stands or bake sales or asked for donations in lieu of presents for a birthday or holiday (which has the added bonus of being a clutter-free gift!). Parents who have held fundraisers with their kids say it was a great opportunity for their children to learn about responsibility and giving back. When the kids bring their donations to the rescue, we schedule it in advance so that the staff are there to greet them and take a photo with a child-friendly pup!
Another great opportunity are service projects. One local teenager, Owen Herz, recently fundraised and built a much-needed donations shed for Lucky Dog Rescue as part of his Eagle Scout program. It was a fun and
meaningful way for the teens to organize, plan, engage, and work together as a team for a good cause. And a number of the dads got involved too!
WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AND WHAT YOU DO?
You don’t have to buy a puppy from a breeder to find the perfect companion. At Lucky Dog Refuge, we believe in second chances— and we believe that adoption saves lives. Every dog in our care has a story, and each one deserves a future filled with love and safety. Our team works around the clock to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs that might otherwise be overlooked.
Owen Herz
YOUNG VIRTUOSOS: Rising Symphony of Two Musical Prodigies
TWO PATHS, ONE PASSION
ARTICLE BY MARTY SHAPIRO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA STRASSHEIM
The Greenwich Arts Academy occupies a beautiful loft one block from the former State Cinema in the Springdale neighborhood of Stamford. It’s here that 20-year-old Athena Artemis (daughter of the Academy’s owners Michael and Mary Hienzsch) and 17-year-old Evan Varriano, are redefining what it means to be a virtuoso in the 21st century. These two are already turning heads across the music industry.
In a world often dominated by quick fame and fleeting trends, Athena and Evan represent something deeper: the power of discipline, creativity, and genuine passion. Both homeschooled, it gave them more than just time, it gave them perspective. Unconstrained by school bells and standardized tests, they had years to hone not just technical skills, but emotional depth. “I was homeschooled, so I had a lot of time to consume every kind of music that I could,” says Athena. “Music is my language. It connects me to the people I love. Music also can express so many feelings that are hard to say out loud. Whether I’m listening to a symphony, a rock album, or a musical, it always takes me on a journey to a new place.”
Homeschooling allowed Evan’s parents to tailor education around his strengths – Shakespearian literature and music. Evan beats to his own drum, and to see him at the piano is extraordinary. “Evan can hear a song once and sit down at the piano and play it like he’s practiced it for months,” says his mother, Sharon. “He plays with an intensity and purpose.”
Athena grew up listening to the music of Billy Joel, Don McLean and Simon and Garfunkel. She credits her father as
being her biggest musical influence. “He’s the most talented pianist and composer I know. He taught me how to improvise on piano and how to write my own music.”
On the other hand, Evan’s music influencers are the likes of Beethoven, Mozart, Bach and Chopin. “I would contend that the musical output of those three is greater than that of every other composer in all of history combined, and therefore I saw it prudent to take exceptional and unique influence from them.”
Spending time with Athena and Evan at the Greenwich Arts Academy was fascinating. They took turns at the piano playing both familiar songs and their own compositions. Athena
left before he contemplates college (he will be applying to the likes of Juilliard). His goals include studying music, along with writing prose and plays that he intends to have published and performed. He feels that much of his work transcribes itself well to cinema and he may be interested in pursuing a career as a director, producer, actor, or music composer.
“Music is my language. It always takes me on a journey to
Both Athena and Evan credit the Greenwich Arts Academy with providing a unique environment to learn and hone their skills. Evan feels that the Academy is unique in that it is a symbiosis of the finest elements of musical education. The teachers demonstrate a strength of character and gener
CORNELL VETERINARY Blood Bank
WORLD CLASS VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE - CLOSE TO HOME
“Triage for canine (feline)!” resounds through the intercoms over 20 times per day at one of the country’s most advanced veterinary emergency and critical care (ECC) centers - not in New York City or Boston, but right here in Stamford’s Harbor Point.
Owned by Cornell University, and established in 2011, Cornell University Veterinary Specialists (CUVS) is one of only 23 VECCS (Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society) Certified Level 1 facilities in North America. This designation means that CUVS is staffed and equipped to provide the very highest level of emergency and critical care to handle the most critical of patients. A robust team of board-certified critical care specialists, specialty residents, emergency doctors, and highly skilled veterinary nurses work around the clock, 24/7/365, to provide life-saving care to dogs and cats, and compassionate support to their families.
“When you bring your pet to CUVS, we are dedicated to ensuring that not only does your pet receive the best possible care, but we spend the time needed to thoroughly explain everything to you, so that you’re positioned to make the best decisions for your pet”, says Dr. Susan Hackner, CUVS’s Chief Medical Officer. “We’re pet lovers. We know what it’s like to have a sick pet. We’ve been there. We’re here to give each and every pet the very best possible care – and we have the advanced expertise and technology to do just that. Not only is our ECC Department world-class, but it’s supported by a comprehensive group of experts in other specialties, including surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, ophthalmology and diagnostic imaging, to ensure that each patient benefits from the expertise that s/he needs.”
THE CUVS LIFELINE BLOOD BANK
Ensuring that each patient has access to immediate life-saving care was the impetus for the hospital’s very own in-house blood bank. The CUVS Lifeline Blood Bank, led by two board-certified critical care specialists, Dr. Anthony Gonzalez and Dr. Megan Murray, is one of exceedingly few in-house veterinary blood banks across the Tri-State Area. “Faced with nationwide shortages in animal blood products and an ever-increasing number of seriously ill pets that need them, CUVS recognized the need for a proactive, sustainable solution”, says Dr. Gonzalez. "Blood transfusions are often essential to stabilize trauma patients, manage complex surgeries, and support patients with
severe anemia. With timely access to blood products, our ability to save lives is significantly enhanced."
Starting with Peter, CUVS’s first canine donor, the blood bank now counts over 240 donors. Peter, an energetic and sociable mixed-breed dog, has donated enough times to have changed the lives of many other pets. “It’s a no-brainer for me,” says Peter’s owner. “He loves coming to CUVS every three months for this, is completely unfazed by donating, and I know the impact that this has for other dogs”. The volunteer program is supported by a dedicated group of pet owners and service organizations, relying mainly on local pet owners to become lifesaving donor families.
“The people that come to us have a reason that they want to be a part of the program,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “Whether it’s a prior experience of a pet in need, or personal fulfillment, they’re choosing to give back. They’re making themselves and their pet available as
a way of paying it forward.” And it does. Each donation produces four units of red blood cells and plasma, enough to potentially save four other pets. “It’s extremely rewarding to be able to help patients. And doubly rewarding that, when our team administers a unit of blood, we know the pet and the family that it comes from.”
So what does it take to become a CUVS Lifesaver? Generally, dogs weighing over 50 lbs and cats over 9 lbs, who are between 1 and 8 years of age, may be considered suitable, as long as they are healthy, up to date on vaccinations and preventatives, not on chronic medications, and have a calm and friendly temperament. Donor families receive a number of benefits including comprehensive health screenings, an annual supply of preventatives, exclusive Lifesaver swag and, of course, the knowledge that they are saving lives. Interested in your pet becoming a CUVS Lifesaver? Contact bloodbank@cuvs.org for more information.
canine blood donor
Pickleball America: Building Confidence, Community, & Connection
YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS TEAM UP TO SERVE MORE THAN A GAME
In the heart of Stamford, a unique collaboration is taking shape—one that blends fitness, fun, and community spirit to empower young people across Fairfield and Westchester counties. At the center of it all is Pickleball America, one of the nation’s largest indoor pickleball facilities and a proud champion of youth engagement through sport.
But this is more than just a story about pickleball. It’s about what happens when a fast-paced, easy-to-learn game meets the passion of local youth organizations with a shared mission: to uplift, engage, and support young people, especially those who need it most.
In recent months, Pickleball America has partnered with key community-focused groups—including Future 5, the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, and the Mill River Collaborative—to bring pickleball into afterschool programs. These collaborations are intentionally focused on introducing the sport to underserved youth, opening doors to experiences that foster connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
For many kids, stepping onto the court at Pickleball America is their very first time playing an organized sport. But the joy is immediate. Laughter bounces off the walls as kids rally back and forth, learning not only the rules of the game but also lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
“Pickleball is more than a sport—it’s a gateway to confidence, friendships, and healthier habits,” said Pernille Halbro, Director of Pickleball at Pickleball America. “We’re thrilled to create opportunities for kids to discover something they can pick up quickly, enjoy deeply, and potentially carry with them for life.”
Indeed, pickleball’s accessibility is one of its greatest strengths. The game is easy to learn, low-cost, and doesn’t require elite athleticism—making it a perfect
fit for all kids, regardless of background or experience. Whether it’s their first paddle swing or their hundredth rally, kids are moving their bodies, building resilience, and forming lasting bonds.
Youth organizations like Future 5 and the Boys & Girls Club see firsthand the broader impact. Through pickleball, students are finding new ways to manage stress, connect socially, and engage in structured activities that nurture leadership and communication skills. The Mill River Collaborative, with its focus on urban greenspaces and wellness, sees the sport as a natural fit for their mission to build vibrant, healthy communities.
The benefits are undeniable:
• Physical fitness that feels like fun, not a chore.
• Mental health support through movement, play, and peer connection.
• Socialization that crosses school districts and neighborhoods.
• Confidence-building that carries off the court into classrooms and homes.
“Pickleball, unlike other sports, has a high level of socialization,” said Joe Schipani, Chief Pickleball Officer at Pickleball America. “It fosters communication, fair play, and life skills. When kids commit to learning, practice regularly, and grow through the sport, they’re gaining more than athletic ability— they’re learning how to win at life.”
With youth programs, summer clinics, after-school access, and community events all in motion, Pickleball America is more than a sports facility—it’s becoming a launchpad for the next generation of healthy, confident, and connected kids.
For these young players, every serve is a step toward something greater.
“When kids commit to learning, practice regularly, and grow through the sport, they’re gaining more than athletic ability— they’re learning how to win at life.”
